The Australian Magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen) is a well-known, melodic carolling, seasonal swooping, much-loved and cherished Australian icon.
Named Magpie for its similar black and white patterning to the Eurasian magpie. The 2 species are nothing alike and not related. The Eurasian Magpie belongs to the crow family Corvidae, while the Australian Magpie is in the family Artamidae, which includes butcherbirds and currawongs. Their behaviours, diets, and nesting habits are completely different.
The Latin name, Gymnorhina tibicen, translates to bare-nosed flute player. The Magpies’ musical melodies, sometimes known as warbling or carolling, can vary up to 4 octaves and is used for courtship, territorial behaviour, emotions, play and begging. They’re also known to mimic more than 30 other bird species as well as human, horse and dog sounds.
Magpies are among the top intelligent bird species in the world. They have problem-solving skills and can learn and recognise human faces.
Widespread throughout Australia, with 9 recognised subspecies that fall into 2 categories. The White-backed Magpie, in the southern parts and the Black-backed Magpie, in the northern parts. With hybridisation at range borders.
Adult birds have a bluish white bill with a black tip. The adult male has a plain white nape (back of the neck). Black-backed males have a black back, and White-backed males have a white back. Females have white feathers at the top of the nape, blending to grey down the back. Young birds have a darker bill and more grey feathers.
Magpies are omnivorous and eat a wide range of insects, worms, lizards, mice, nuts, seeds and other birds’ eggs. As well as human handouts.
Magpies can be very territorial, often chasing away other birds to defend an area. During nesting season, their aggression can increase and include swooping at people. Evidence suggests that only around 10% of mostly males engage in swooping behaviour.
Published 11/08/2025
Colac Birder 